Europe seeks quick access to user data

The proposals aim to help police act quickly in the wake of terror attacks to round up collaborators and suspects.

One option would let police in one nation ask for data held by a net firm in another, without having to ask for permission from that country’s force.

Current rules mean investigators in one country have to ask police forces in another to get the data for them.

Direct data

Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova said the proposals would be used to draw up future legislation.

“I am sure that now in the shadow of the recent terrorist attacks and increasing threats in Europe there will be more understanding among the ministers, even among those who come from countries where there has not been a terrorist attack,” she told Reuters.